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Puri to Be Developed as World-Class Religious City, Says Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi

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Puri, Oct 13 – Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced an ambitious plan to transform Puri into a world-class religious city, highlighting the town’s spiritual, cultural, and heritage significance that extends beyond its religious identity.

During his visit to Brundabati Niwas, where he met with elderly Habishyalis, the Chief Minister paid tribute to their unwavering devotion and described them as the moral strength of Odisha and living embodiments of Odia culture and identity.

Kartik Month and the Significance of Habisha

Speaking at the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized the spiritual importance of Kartik month in Odia tradition, associating it with self-restraint, devotion, compassion, and prayer. For generations, Odia women—particularly elderly widows—have observed the Habisha Brata, a month-long period of fasting, simplicity, and spiritual practice dedicated to Lord Jagannath.

Majhi stated that the deep faith and discipline shown by the Habishyalis not only strengthen Odisha’s cultural roots but also inspire future generations to uphold spiritual values.

Digital Reforms and Welfare for Habishyalis

In a major announcement, the Chief Minister revealed that starting next year, the state government will introduce a dedicated digital registration system for Habishyalis. This initiative aims to provide seamless access to health, emergency, and accommodation services, ensuring a safe and respectful stay for all pilgrims.

This year, the Odisha government has facilitated the stay of around 2,500 Habishyalis at five designated locations in Puri. An estimated ₹3.30 crore has been spent to ensure free and comfortable accommodation, hygienic food, clean drinking water, medical support, and other basic amenities.

Puri’s Municipal Upgrade and Future Vision

The Chief Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrade Puri’s civic infrastructure. Declaring the city’s upgradation to a Municipal Corporation as the first step, he outlined a larger plan to develop Puri into a globally recognized spiritual and heritage destination.

“Puri is not just a religious site; it is a symbol of Odia devotion, faith, and cultural pride. Our vision is to make it a model city that reflects the glory of Jagannath culture and provides a divine experience to pilgrims from across the world,” Majhi said.

Leaders Join in Honouring Devotees

The event at Brundabati Niwas was also attended by several key public representatives, including:

  • Puri MP Sambit Patra

  • Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhu Prasad Tarai

  • Puri MLA Sunil Kumar Mohanty

  • Brahmagiri MLA Upasna Mohapatra

  • Satyabadi MLA Om Prakash Mishra

  • Pipili MLA Ashrit Pattanayak

  • Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida

They joined the Chief Minister in interacting with the Habishyalis, listening to their experiences, and ensuring their needs were addressed.

A Spiritual Commitment to Odisha’s Future

Concluding his visit, the Chief Minister expressed hope that the devotion and prayers of the Habishyalis will continue to bless Odisha and help guide society towards peace, compassion, and spiritual progress. He encouraged citizens to embrace and follow the timeless values of Jagannath culture, rooted in equality, service, and devotion.